UFC ATLANTA:- Kamaru Usman Ends Losing Streak with Dominant Win Over Joaquin Buckley
Former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman returned to winning ways on Saturday night, snapping a three-fight skid with a commanding unanimous decision victory over surging contender Joaquin Buckley in the main event of UFC Atlanta.
Usman, who had not tasted victory since outpointing Colby Covington in November 2021, was under pressure following consecutive losses — including a knockout defeat and decision loss to Leon Edwards, and a closely contested bout against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 294 in October 2023.
Facing Buckley, the fighter known as “The Nigerian Nightmare” showcased his trademark wrestling dominance. After slipping under a punch to secure an early takedown in the opening round, Usman controlled position and landed a series of ground strikes that left Buckley with a cut above his eye.
Though Buckley found some success on his feet in the second round, Usman once again dragged the fight to the mat, neutralizing any momentum the St. Louis native attempted to build. The third round followed a similar pattern, with Buckley landing a strong punch before being taken down and controlled for the remainder of the frame.
The fourth round saw more of the same, as Buckley swung wildly before succumbing to Usman’s superior grappling. In a display of resilience, Buckley managed to stuff five takedown attempts in the fifth round, but Usman had already done enough to secure a decisive win.
The victory re-establishes Usman as a formidable presence at 170 pounds and opens the door for renewed title aspirations in the UFC’s stacked welterweight class.
